Netanyahu Credits Trump’s Return for Shift in Global Support for Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently asserted that the return of Donald Trump to the global political landscape has significantly altered the trajectory of support for Israel. In a speech delivered on March 15, 2024, Netanyahu proclaimed, “Overnight, everything changed,” highlighting a recent hostage deal as a direct consequence of Trump’s reelection.

Netanyahu emphasized that prior to Trump’s return, international sentiment had increasingly turned against Israel. He characterized this shift as governments “succumbing to anti-Semitic mobs” and advocating for a cessation of hostilities in the ongoing conflict with Hamas without ensuring the disarmament of the militant group. The Israeli leader credited Trump’s leadership with breaking this deadlock and reigniting diplomatic momentum surrounding the conflict.

According to Netanyahu, the renewed alliance between the United States and Israel has facilitated breakthroughs in various areas, including hostage negotiations and military operations against Hamas. “We worked closely together to ensure the disarmament of Hamas, the demilitarisation of Gaza, and that Gaza would never again pose a threat to Israel,” he stated, presenting a vision for future peace.

Netanyahu lauded Trump’s effectiveness on the international stage, declaring, “I’ve never seen anyone move the world so quickly, so decisively, so resolutely” as Trump. He expressed profound gratitude as he reflected on the release of hostages and the reunification of families, calling it a moment of “indescribable joy.”

Asserting that Trump’s influence on Israel surpasses that of any previous American president, Netanyahu remarked, “No American president has ever done more for Israel. And as I said in Washington, it ain’t even close.” This assertion underscores a dramatic shift in the Israeli leader’s portrayal of U.S.-Israel relations, framing Trump as essential to both military success and prospects for lasting peace.

Reflecting on the broader implications of leadership, Netanyahu quoted Ecclesiastes, stating, “For everything there is a season. The last two years have been a time for war. The coming years will hopefully be a time for peace.”

In a gesture of appreciation, Netanyahu announced his intention to nominate Trump for the Israel Prize, the nation’s highest civilian honour. He remarked, “When others were fearful, you were bold. When others abandoned us, you stood by our side.” This nomination signifies a recognition of Trump’s role in shaping Israeli policy and diplomatic relations.

In closing, Netanyahu extended a warm welcome to Trump, expressing gratitude for his contributions to Israel’s security and diplomatic landscape. “Thank you for paving a path to peace. Welcome to Israel. Welcome to Jerusalem,” he concluded, marking a noteworthy moment in the ongoing narrative of U.S.-Israel relations.